🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy Outback

Year:

2006

Market Segment:

Mid-size Crossover/Wagon

Generation Code:

BP/BL (Fourth Generation)

Generation Years:

2003-2009

Vin Prefix:

4S3

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Subaru Legacy Outback of this era occupied a unique niche, blending the comfort and features of a mid-size sedan (Legacy) with the increased ground clearance, rugged styling, and AWD capability of an SUV/crossover.

Key Competitors:

Toyota Highlander, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Murano, Audi Allroad (premium segment)

All Wheel Drive:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, a hallmark of Subaru vehicles, providing excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions.

Ground Clearance:

Higher ground clearance compared to standard sedans, enhancing off-pavement capability.

Cargo Space:

Versatile cargo area with folding rear seats, suitable for outdoor gear and everyday utility.

Safety:

Emphasis on safety with standard AWD and available stability control systems.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Variants Covered:

2.5L Naturally Aspirated (EJ253), 3.0L Naturally Aspirated H6 (EZ30D)

Trim Levels Covered:

2.5i, 2.5i Limited, 3.0R, 3.0R L.L. Bean Edition

Estimated Page Count:

~300-350

Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, lubrication system

Transmission:

Automatic Transmission (4-speed and 5-speed depending on engine)

Drivetrain:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system

Chassis:

Braking system (ABS), steering system, suspension system

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, lighting, instrument panel, infotainment, power accessories

Safety Systems:

Airbags, Seat belts, Child seat anchors (ISOFIX/LATCH), Traction Control System (TCS), Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC)

Comfort Convenience:

Climate control, power windows, power locks, remote keyless entry, cruise control

Basic Maintenance:

Checking fluid levels, tire pressure, tire rotation, light bulb replacement, wiper blade replacement

Troubleshooting:

Warning lights interpretation, basic diagnostics for common issues

Operation:

Starting and stopping the engine, driving techniques, using vehicle features, towing information

Depth:

Focuses on owner-level understanding and operation, not detailed mechanical repair procedures. Includes information on vehicle systems, maintenance schedules, and emergency procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable if a digital scan of the original document.

Scan Resolution:

Varies based on source, typically good enough for readability and detail.

Original Binding:

Perfect bound or saddle-stitched (for physical copy)

Original Paper:

Standard matte finish paper

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

EJ253

Engine Type 1:

2.5L Flat-4 (Boxer)

Aspiration 1:

Naturally Aspirated

Horsepower 1:

165 hp @ 5,600 rpm

Torque 1:

166 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm

Fuel Induction 1:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Requirement 1:

Unleaded Gasoline, 87 Octane (minimum)

Engine Code 2:

EZ30D

Engine Type 2:

3.0L Flat-6 (Boxer)

Aspiration 2:

Naturally Aspirated

Horsepower 2:

245 hp @ 6,600 rpm

Torque 2:

217 lb-ft @ 4,200 rpm

Fuel Induction 2:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Requirement 2:

Unleaded Gasoline, 91 Octane (recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Type 2.5I:

4-Speed Automatic (with manual shift mode)

Type 3.0R:

5-Speed Automatic (with manual shift mode)

AWD System:

Variable Torque Distribution All-Wheel Drive (for 4-speed auto) or Continuous All-Wheel Drive (for 5-speed auto)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Subaru ATF HP (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

~190.9 inches

Width:

~70.1 inches

Height:

~59.1 inches

Wheelbase:

~104.0 inches

Ground Clearance:

~8.1 inches

Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:

~38.5 cubic feet

Cargo Volume Rear Seats Down:

~67.7 cubic feet

Curb Weight 2.5I Auto:

~3,400 - 3,500 lbs

Curb Weight 3.0R Auto:

~3,600 - 3,700 lbs

Towing Capacity:

2,000 lbs (check specific model and local regulations)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Front Crash Test Passenger:

5 Stars

IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:

Good

IIHS Side Impact Crash Test:

Good

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS)

Stability Control:

Standard Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) on most models

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Airbags:

Front, front-side, and side-curtain airbags

Seat Belts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters

Child Seat Anchors:

ISOFIX/LATCH system for child seat installation

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM/CD stereo system, with optional subwoofer and premium audio packages available.

Navigation:

Optional GPS navigation system available on higher trims, typically integrated into the dashboard.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Tire Pressure Monitoring:

Optional Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) available.

Auxiliary Input:

May include an auxiliary audio input jack on some models/trim levels for portable music players.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe driving), or 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal driving) – refer to manual for specifics based on driving conditions.

Engine Oil Type Capacity 2.5I:

5W-30 Synthetic (API SG or higher); 4.5 US quarts (with filter)

Engine Oil Type Capacity 3.0R:

5W-30 Synthetic (API SG or higher); 6.9 US quarts (with filter)

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue); 50/50 mix with distilled water

Timing Belt Replacement:

For 2.5L EJ253: Timing Belt - 105,000 miles or 105 months. For 3.0L EZ30D: Timing Chain (does not typically require scheduled replacement).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid

Head Gaskets:

While less prone than earlier generations, some EJ25 engines can develop coolant leaks from the head gaskets. Regular inspection of the coolant level and for external leaks is advisable. The H6 EZ30D engines are generally more robust in this regard.

Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets can sometimes develop leaks over time.

Suspension Components:

Wear on suspension bushings, ball joints, and sway bar links can occur with mileage, especially in vehicles used on rougher roads.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Heritage:

Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), has a long history dating back to 1953. Known for its pioneering use of All-Wheel Drive and horizontally opposed 'Boxer' engines, Subaru has built a reputation for reliability, safety, and capability, particularly in challenging driving conditions.

Legacy Outback Evolution:

The Outback variant originated as a trim level of the Subaru Legacy wagon in 1995, featuring increased ground clearance and ruggedized styling. It proved so popular that it became a distinct model. The 2005-2009 (BP/BL) generation represented the fourth iteration of the Legacy Outback, further refining the formula with improved styling, technology, and performance over its predecessors.

Manufacturing Location:

Gunma Plant, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

The 2006 Subaru Legacy Outback received 'Good' ratings in IIHS front and side impact crash tests, contributing to its strong safety reputation.

NHTSA Overall Safety Rating:

The vehicle achieved a 5-star rating in NHTSA front impact tests for driver and passenger.

AWD System Reputation:

Recognized for its effective and reliable Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, a key differentiator in its class.